The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be unlike any previous tournament in history. For the first time ever, the World Cup will be jointly hosted by three countries—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—with matches spread across dozens of cities and multiple international borders. For travelers, that unprecedented scale creates extraordinary opportunity and equally significant logistical complexity that requires careful advance planning.
Whether you’re following your national team across borders or attending a single match abroad, understanding immigration rules, passport requirements, visa timelines, and entry procedures is absolutely essential. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will attract millions of international visitors, and governments across North America are already urging fans to prepare early to avoid delays, denied boarding, or entry refusal.
This comprehensive guide outlines what travelers need to know to enter and exit the United States, Canada, and Mexico smoothly during the world cup, and how to reduce risk while moving between host countries.
Entering the United States for World Cup 2026
For international fans attending matches in the United States, early planning is absolutely critical. US immigration authorities have made clear that standard visa security and processing protocols remain in place for World Cup 2026, even as special accommodations are expected for ticket holders.
If you require a US visa and don’t already have one, now is the time to begin the process. Visa appointment wait times in many countries already stretch for months, and demand will surge dramatically as the tournament approaches.
Foreign travelers should confirm which of the following applies to their situation:
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) participants — currently 42 nations — may apply for entry using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). ESTA approval is required before boarding a flight to the United States and must be secured in advance. The ESTA application typically processes within minutes but can take up to 72 hours.
Travelers from countries not eligible for the VWP must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa. This process includes an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate and may involve long wait times depending on location. Some embassies are currently scheduling appointments 6-12 months out.
Canadian and Bermudan passport holders do not need a visa or ESTA to enter the United States as tourists, making their travel planning significantly simpler.
All visitors entering the United States must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, unless they are citizens of exempt countries under US agreements.
FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS)
The US Department of State has announced that additional information regarding the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS) will be shared with ticket holders in early 2026. Travelers whose visa appointment availability extends beyond tournament kickoff are advised to wait for PASS details before finalizing booking.
American fans traveling to Canada or Mexico for World Cup matches should immediately verify passport expiration dates. A valid US passport is required for international air travel and is the most reliable form of identification at land borders.
Current US Passport Processing Timelines
Current US passport processing timelines include:
- Routine service: 4–6 weeks
- Expedited service: 2–3 weeks, plus an additional fee
These timelines do not include mailing time, which can add several weeks to total turnaround. Travelers should factor in the complete processing cycle when booking flights or accommodations.
Last-minute passport renewals during peak World Cup demand may result in missed matches or denied boarding—a nightmare scenario for any devoted fan.
STEP Enrollment and Traveler Awareness
American travelers heading abroad for World Cup matches should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows the US Department of State to provide real-time safety, security, weather, and health alerts for destinations in Canada and Mexico.
STEP also enables embassies and consulates to contact travelers during emergencies such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or family crises. Enrollment takes approximately 20 minutes and can be completed online before departure—a small time investment for significant peace of mind.
Entering Canada During World Cup 2026
Canada will host matches across multiple cities, and entry requirements vary based on citizenship and travel method.
US citizens do not need a visa, Canadian passport, or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when entering Canada with a valid US passport. Border officials will verify identity and citizenship upon arrival.
While alternative documents may be accepted at land crossings, a passport remains the recommended and universally accepted form of identification for hassle-free entry.
US permanent residents arriving by air must present proof of citizenship and a valid US permanent resident card. Those arriving by land or water from the United States may present their permanent resident card without a passport.
International Travelers Entering Canada
International travelers (non-US citizens and non-permanent residents) must carry a valid passport and may require either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Eligibility depends on nationality and travel method.
Travelers who require an eTA should apply well before booking flights. While many approvals are issued within minutes, processing delays can occur, especially during periods of high demand. The eTA application costs CAD $7 and remains valid for five years or until passport expiration.
Entering Mexico for World Cup Matches
Mexico’s role in World Cup 2026 will draw substantial international travel, particularly from fans attending multiple matches across borders.
All travelers entering Mexico must carry a valid passport book or card. There is no minimum passport validity requirement beyond the length of stay, but the passport must remain valid throughout the visit.
Upon arrival, travelers must complete the Multiple Digital Migration Form (FMMd), provided by airlines or available online. This document must be retained and presented upon departure from Mexico—losing it can cause significant delays.
Mexican immigration officers may request additional documentation based on travel purpose. For tourists, this may include hotel reservations or return tickets. Business travelers, technicians, and students may be required to present supporting letters or contracts.
US citizen minors traveling domestically within Mexico by air must carry a US passport book for identification purposes.
Length of stay authorization is determined by Mexican immigration authorities at the port of entry and may vary based on individual circumstances and travel plans.
Managing Cross-Border Travel During the Tournament
One of the defining challenges of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is the likelihood of fans crossing borders multiple times within a short period. Each entry is treated as a separate immigration event, and travelers must meet all requirements at every crossing.
This means travelers should:
- Carry original passports at all times, never photocopies
- Ensure visas and travel authorizations remain valid for the duration of travel
- Plan buffer time for border inspections, especially during peak match days
- Keep all immigration documents organized and easily accessible
- Research customs regulations for each country regarding prohibited items
Failure to meet entry requirements, even once, can disrupt entire itineraries and result in missed matches, financial losses, and significant stress.
How to Prepare for World Cup 2026 Travel
Planning ahead is the single most important step for successful World Cup 2026 travel. Here are essential preparation tips:
Start Early with Documentation
Begin visa applications and passport renewals at least 6-12 months before the tournament. Processing times vary significantly by country and embassy workload.
Understand Each Country’s Requirements
Research specific entry requirements for each host country you plan to visit. Requirements differ for US, Canada, and Mexico, and what works in one country may not apply to another.
Keep Digital and Physical Copies
Maintain both digital scans and physical copies of all travel documents, including passports, visas, ESTA confirmations, eTA approvals, match tickets, and hotel confirmations. Store digital copies in cloud storage accessible from any device.
Monitor Official Sources
Regularly check official government websites for updates on immigration policies, border wait times, and any special programs announced for World Cup travelers. Requirements can change, especially as the tournament approaches.
Consider Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and document replacement. Given the complexity of multi-country travel, insurance provides essential protection against unforeseen circumstances.
What International Fans Should Know About Border Wait Times
Border crossing wait times can vary dramatically during the World Cup 2026, especially on match days when thousands of fans move between countries simultaneously.
Land border crossings between the US, Canada, and Mexico typically experience longer waits than air travel, though both can face delays during peak periods. Many border crossings publish real-time wait times online—check these before departure and build extra time into your schedule.
For air travel, arrive at airports earlier than usual. International flights require additional security screening and customs processing, and airports will be handling unprecedented volumes of World Cup travelers.
Final Thoughts on World Cup 2026 Travel Planning
The FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the world’s greatest sporting event across three incredible North American countries. However, the multi-country format demands more thorough travel preparation than any previous tournament.
International fans who begin planning now—securing visas, renewing passports, understanding entry requirements, and organizing travel documents—will enjoy a smooth, stress-free experience moving between matches across international borders. Those who wait risk facing denied entry, missed matches, and disrupted travel plans.
The key to successful World Cup 2026 travel is simple: start early, stay organized, and verify requirements multiple times. With proper preparation, you’ll focus on what matters most—cheering for your team and creating unforgettable memories.
For more comprehensive travel guides, expert World Cup 2026 updates, and essential immigration tips for international sports events, visit The Inspiring Insight for the latest information. Our team provides ongoing coverage of visa policy changes, border regulations, and traveler resources to ensure your journey is seamless from start to finish.
